Strength of Mind

Do you take the time to work on your mind like you do on your body?

As the Commonwealth Games kick off here on the Gold Coast, I’m reminded of my very competitive swimming days. From a young age, I used to observe all these incredible athletes and wonder why those particular few could swim so much faster and win most races when we all train up and down that pool together twice a day! Sure, there are some physical factors to consider, but I figured out from that early age that the real edge was in the mind.

One of my good friends at the time swam in the Commonwealth Games for Canada. She said to me: “Renée, it’s all a head game”. That line really stuck with me.

I’ve been studying the mind-body connection ever since. I soon realised it goes much farther than athletes achieving peak performance- it can be used to enhance all areas of life. Your mind or mental state (i.e. emotions, thoughts, beliefs) affects biological functioning through constant communication of hormones and neurotransmitters in the body. Even pain is a subjective experience- the physical sensation is highly affected by your emotions at the time and even what that pain or injury means to you.

I personally put a lot of (if not more) time and effort on my mental state than I do on my physical training. I read philosophy, psychology; I listen to motivational and inspirational podcasts; I meditate, I practice yoga and mindful breathing; I look inward to work on my flaws and face my fears. And my body undeniably thanks me for it.

If you’d like to know more about how the mind-body practices of mindfulness, breathing techniques, yoga, and Pilates can help manage your pain and enhance strength of mind & body, please get in touch.

If you don’t, that’s ok! I encourage you to train your mind in whatever way works for you.